The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) that is on the boarder of North and South Korea boasts some of the richest farmland in the world. While visiting that part of South Korea, I was struck with the contrast of constant and intimidating military presence and the peaceful and friendly nature of the farmers that live and work there.

The spirit of Puerto Rico is playful and happy. Puerto Ricans love to gather together for big parties with lots of food, good drinks and great music for dancing. Over the 30 years that I have been visiting Puerto Rico I have made many friends there and whenever I visit we try and get together for a celebration.

The island of Tasmania, located off the southern coast of Australia is a place known for its appreciation of local foods and a culture dedicated to sustainability. The population is diverse and the mix translates into a unique perspective when it comes to cooking.

Melbourne, Australia is a large and ethnically diverse city. People from all over the world have made the city their home and its food culture is reflective of this.

I have been visiting Puerto Rico for 30 years and was introduced to its culture and cuisine by my good friend, Chef Alfredo Ayala. I have always been drawn to the beauty of the island and the friendly nature of the people who live there.

Sydney, Australia is a sparkling, modern city with a friendly and casual atmosphere. An appreciation for the outdoors, their local ingredients and sustainability comes through in their food whether it’s the simply prepared-yet carefully handled dishes from farm-to-table restaurants like Biota or very refined, modern dining rooms like Sepia.

I have a deep appreciation for the flavors, technique and attitude that Korean cooks take with their cuisine. The flavors of Korea have made their way around the world and have been brought to a modern and elevated place thanks to innovative chefs like David Chang of Momofuku

During my journey through South Australia I was joined by my friend and Le Bernardin Sommelier, Aldo Sohm. While I tried my hand at sheep herding, Aldo visited some of Australia's premier vineyards and wineries. Our closing dinner brought together the flavors of the region in a beautiful way and it inspired me to create this leg of lamb to enjoy with some of the wine we brought back.

About

In this recipe, we are creating “tomato water” which requires blending tomatoes into a pulp and then putting them in layers of cheesecloth set over a bowl for 2-3 hours. Bird’s eye chili peppers are also used here. This tiny, red pepper is very hot but adds a distinct flavor that is typical in Korean food. Be careful when handling them and distribute them thoughtfully when serving.

Serves 4

Directions

Set up a strainer that is lined with cheesecloth folded into at least 4 layers. Set the strainer on top of a bowl to catch the liquid that will be strained.

Remove the core from each tomato. Roughly chop the tomatoes and put into blender blender with about 1 teaspoon of salt. Pulse the tomatoes until almost pureed, but with a few chunks remaining. Pour the blended tomato into the cheesecloth-lined strainer, and refrigerate. The tomato mixture will slowly drip clarified tomato water into the bowl. This will take about 2-3 hours to completely drip out of the puree, and can be done overnight.

Once the tomato water has dripped from the cheesecloth, pour it into a medium sized pot. The remaining puree can be saved for another recipe, or discarded. Bring the tomato water up to a boil over medium heat. Foam will start to form at the top of the tomato water, and should be skimmed off. Once all the foam is skimmed off, add the garlic, lemongrass, and birds eye chilies to the tomato water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cut the dried rice cellophane noodles into bite-size pieces with scissors, and place into a medium sized pot. Pour the boiling tomato consommé through a strainer over the pot with the noodles in it, removing the aromatics. Bring the consommé back to boil and fully cook the noodles.

With a slotted spoon, scoop equal amounts of the noodles into four serving bowls. Pour the consommé over the noodles in the bowls. Garnish the top with the scallions, sliced cherry tomatoes and a few drops of extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately.

The 'Top End' of Australia is home to crocodiles, fresh water sharks, water buffalo and other wildlife that Eric encounters along his journey. Eric’s adventure takes him by boat up the Mary River then by helicopter to a remote fishing spot where he will try to reel in a prized barramundi...all the while avoiding becoming dinner himself. Inspired by his wildlife adventures, Eric will prepare Striped Bass with Green Papaya Salad and Blood Orange with a Citrus Vinaigrette.

The Northern Territory is made up of a vast wilderness where both the terrain and the people that live there are tough and beautiful. After driving through the outback, where I saw kangaroos and herds of water buffalo, I sped through crocodile infested waters to Goat Island. There, the sole resident, Kai Hansen fed me seared, ground, water buffalo meat patties with onions on toasted buns. It was a great way to fill up before a long day of fishing.

The following recipe is cooked on an open fire. It is meant to be prepared outside with friends. The fire should be lit ahead of time. Once the flames have calmed down and you have some hot coals, you are ready to start cooking.